The United Church of Christ is working with local partners to assist large number of internally displaced persons in Sri Lanka.

The Government of Sri Lanka has announced an end to war, for the first time since 1983. While for some this may sound like a victory, large numbers of civilians are in transition and without the necessities needed for their survival.

Children, especially those under the age of 5 are most severely impacted and are suffering from undernourishment even if they and their families can reach the camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Short term, immediate humanitarian support is needed to help IDPs survive until they can return home by the end of the year.Of the 265,000 IDPs reported, approximately 80,000 are children.

The United Church of Christ is working with local partners through Church World Service and Action by Churches Together (ACT) International.An initial gift of $15,000 has been sent to provide health and hygiene kits, cooking utensils, sleeping materials, and access to health and medical services.

How you can help:

1. Pray for the people of Sri Lanka and an end to violence.

2. Send your gift payable to your congregation marked for "Peace for Sri Lanka" with the request they be sent through your Conference office on to Wider Church Ministries.

OR

Send gifts, made out to Wider Church Ministries and marked in the memo portion "Peace for Sri Lanka" to Wider Church Ministries; Financial Services, 6th Floor, 700 Prospect Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115.